YOU ARE NOT ALONE
Growing up, I experienced bullying, and it hurt even more when it came from someone close to me, especially someone who lived in the same house. I spent a lot of time with girls and naturally adopted some of their traits, including my soft voice, which I got from my mother. Because of this, I faced constant criticism and bullying from one person almost every day, leading to an identity crisis. Whenever I fought back, my mother would tell me not to because he was older and that I should just understand him. As a result, I learned to heal on my own, even though it was difficult to manage my emotions. This also led to poor communication, as I struggled to explain myself clearly. Some things have changed since then. I’ve become stronger and braver because of those experiences. Now, I realize that we shouldn’t let anyone make us feel emotionally down. Instead, we should stand up for ourselves and speak our truth. No one should be treated unfairly, because we never how much someone can handle their self. I invite you all to join me in standing up for those who feel unheard, invalidated, or misunderstood. Let’s come together to create a world filled with respect and understanding. From: Renzo Gabriel Bajuyo
Being alone in the dark is my safe place whenever I feel anxious and depressed.
Hi, this is Floren, a 16-year-old student struggling with mental health issues. I am usually a loud and outgoing person, but whenever my anxiety strikes, I become quiet and lose the motivation to do anything or even talk to people. At night, I often cry in my bed, overthinking everything I’ve done wrong and wondering why my life feels so messy.
But at the end of the day, I pray and ask God for guidance to help me continue living with a positive mindset. This helps me a lot and reminds me not to give up on doing the things I want to achieve.
To anyone reading this, I want to inspire you: whenever you feel like everyone is judging you, or when life seems unbearably cruel, turn to God. Ask for His guidance as you take every step, and remember to thank Him for every blessing that comes your way. From: Floren Heart B. Caneos
Growing up, I used to think families were supposed to have everything figured out. But in reality, my family had its own share of misunderstandings, constant arguments, and unspoken pain. At times, and I didn’t realize how much it affected my mental health until I hit a breaking point.
I started feeling anxious all the time, even about little things. I’d question myself Am I the problem? Why can’t things just get better? It got to a point where I felt completely drained, but I was too scared to speak up. And I always asked God why it's always happening to us, until now. From: Ian Fred Caraos
During the pandemic, I went through one of the toughest periods of my life. I was diagnosed with depression due to unexpected events that completely overwhelmed me. I struggled to sleep, and I felt like I had lost myself in the process.
Thankfully, my parents were there for me. They encouraged me to accept what had happened and supported me in seeking professional help by seeing a doctor. With their guidance, I slowly started to heal.
One important thing I’ve learned from this experience is the value of sharing our struggles with our loved ones, especially our parents. Opening up to them about what I was going through made a huge difference. They became my pillar of strength and helped me move forward.
If you're struggling, don’t keep it to yourself. Reach out to your parents or someone you trust. You don’t have to face it alone—help is always available, and things can get better. From: Jomella Celocia
I've been experiencing extreme stress and depression to the point where I can't sleep due to constant overthinking. I often find myself crying for no clear reason, and my mind fills with negative scenarios. Hurtful words and issues directed at me only make me feel worse. Sometimes, I feel as though I'm carrying the weight of the world, and all I can do is cry. I don't share these feelings with anyone because I'm afraid of being judged or labeled as overdramatic.
For anyone feeling the same way, remember: your feelings are valid, and it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. Try to reach out to someone you trust or write down your thoughts to release some of the weight. Small acts of self-care, like deep breathing or a short walk, can make a difference. There’s strength in seeking support. You’re not alone, and there’s always hope, even in the darkest moments. From: Anonymous; one of the members.
I used to struggle with anxiety, especially in social situations. It felt like I was constantly on edge, and the pressure to find true friends only heightened my discomfort. I had developed a habit of being alone, which ultimately made my anxiety worse. However, when I was in grade 10, I was fortunate enough to find two friends who really supported me and encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone. I was incredibly thankful to them for their help and understanding.
Unfortunately, recently we had a misunderstanding that led to a separation, and it left me feeling quite lost. In the weeks that followed, I found myself switching friends, trying to find a group where I felt comfortable. But often, I felt left out, which triggered my self-doubt and anxiety once again.
Despite these challenges, I am grateful for my classmates, especially one girl who has been a bright light during this difficult time. Meeting her has reminded me that there are still genuine connections to be made, and that it’s okay to lean on others for support. I’m learning that building friendships takes time and effort, and that it's important to be patient with myself throughout this journey.
Remember, you're not alone in this journey. It's okay to feel lost and unsure sometimes. Keep nurturing those connections with your classmates, and don't be afraid to reach out to others. You deserve to have genuine friendships that bring you joy and comfort.
Keep going, and remember that you're worthy of genuine friendships and support. You've got this!" From: Anonymous; one of the members.
Being the oldest in class is hard for me to adjust.
My depression was a silent weight, a constant hum of anxiety I hid behind a facade of normalcy. a constant hum of anxiety I hid behind a facade of normalcy. The pressure to be happy, to fit in, was oppressive.
I felt out of place because of more than simply the age difference. It was the invisible weight I carried, the unending buzz of tension that never seemed to stop. I was dealing with depression, a silent war that I concealed under a veneer of normalcy.
I tried to fit in, to laugh at the jokes, to join in the conversations, but it seemed like I was performing a role, a character in a play with a script written by someone else. The continual pressure to be happy, successful, and fit in was a heavy burden that I couldn't seem to shake.
I took a modest step toward healing by speaking with a trusted friend, looking for resources, and accepting that it's alright to not be okay. Seeking aid is an indication of strength, not weakness. Remember, if you're struggling, reach out. You are not alone. From: Anonymous; one of the members.